Welbeck In Line For Southampton Start

Danny Welbeck has been limited to just the three appearances from the bench for Arsenal this season as he battles back from injury.

These outings have totalled 21 minutes but the England international is expected to make his first start since returning from his knee injury when Arsenal head to St Mary’s to face Southampton in the FA Cup on Saturday.

According to the Evening Standard Arsene Wenger was planning to give Welbeck an extended run against Burnley on Sunday but the sending off of Granit Xhaka altered those plans with this start coming at the weekend.

Whatever Wenger decides with Welbeck in this fourth round tie it is likely the boss will be watching on from the stands as a touchline ban is expected to be handed down following his FA charge that will kick in against Southampton.

Another Arsenal player looking for first team involvement is Gedion Zelalem. The midfielder was loaned to Rangers last season with De Telegraaf – via the Metro – reporting he’ll be heading out on loan again.

The 19 year old will go to Dutch club VVV Venlo until the end of the season but not before he signs a new deal with Arsenal to ensure he doesn’t leave the Gunners on a free at the end of the campaign.